Upheaval in TVNZ sales

TVNZ CEO Rick Ellis has confirmed the resignation of head of advertising sales Dave Walker, who will leave at the end of August.

The news comes not long after announcements over significant cuts and restructuring at the broadcaster.

Mr Walker had been with TVNZ for eight and a half years and had filled the role of head of advertising sales for the past three years.

Mr Ellis confirmed the news to TVNZ staff in a statement.

"It’s with a great sense of sadness that I am announcing Dave Walker’s decision to leave TVNZ," he said.

"Dave has very skilfully led TVNZ through into the multi-media digital environment and fought tirelessly to keep the company’s revenues during the recent recession.

"I’m sure you will join with me in wishing Dave well for the future."

It's understood the sales team will now report directly to Paul Maher, who recently joined TVNZ as head of sales and marketing.

Mr Walker's tenure in the role will be largely remembered by the ad industry for his actions in cutting commission, a move which did not go down well among many.

Mr Walker told NBR that it was a sad decision but it’s time for a change.

“Eight years in an organization is quite a long tenure,” Mr Walker said, as the phones rang hot.

“I’ve been thinking about my future for a while. I came back from holiday last week and decided it was time to make a move.”

Mr Walker said he had no plans for the future, aside from taking time out to figure out what his next move would be.

“I’ve spent my whole working career jumping from one job to another. I’m keen to find new challenges – before I get stale, grumpy and cynical.”

Mr Walker said he’s keen to stick around in the advertising industry, but he’ll also look beyond it for more opportunities.

“I’ve had a lifetime in radio, TV and advertising, it’s clearly what I love. So I won’t look too far from that.”

While he’s after “a new challenge”, Mr Walker is happy with the business he’s leaving behind him.

“It’s in great shape and I’m really positive about it. I’ve got a strong team I’ve worked with for many years, so they’re a bit sad [I’m leaving].”

Mr Walker refused any notion that his resignation is as a result of restructuring.

“In November and December last year we reset up the sales team and they’re in a great position to go and capitalize on modest market gains.

“I’ve been through lots of restructures and every time you wonder if it’s the right thing to continue on, and it was a the time.”

Mr Walker, finalist in NBR's Best Dressed awards at last year's CAANZ Media Awards.